Root Canal

When a tooth has an extensive decay or is badly infected, root canal treatment is needed to save or repair it. Root canal is the cavity within the tooth that contains pulp and pulp chamber. Nerves are vital while the teeth are growing, but after that their only function is to provide the sensation of hot and cold. Therefore, if they are dead or are removed, it is not going to have any considerable effect of the functionality of the teeth.

When the nerve tissue is infected or damaged, the bacteria multiply in the pulp chamber and can cause an infection. In that case root canal treatment should be performed to remove the pulp chamber and save the tooth from infection. Although there might not be a symptom at all, severe toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold, discoloration and swelling are symptoms that might indicate a need for a root canal treatment.

Both dentists and endodontists can perform this procedure. First, an X-ray is taken to define the shape of the root canal. The dentist will make sure that the area is dry and saliva-free for the procedure. After accessing the inner part of the tooth, the pulp chamber, as well as the bacteria, decayed tissue and debris will be removed and the tooth will be cleaned. If there is an infection, the dentist will put a medicine in the tooth and wait for one week to make sure that the tooth is cured and there is no more infection. If after one week the tooth is fine, the dentist will use a paste and rubber compound to fill the root canal. Then a restoration, such as filling or crown is used to fill the cavity of the tooth.

If there are more than the usual anticipated root canals present in tooth (and they are left unclean), there is a crack in the root of the tooth or a break in the inner part of the tooth or if somehow bacteria have found their way to the tooth, another treatment is needed.

Root canal treatments as well as general dentistry treatments, pediatric dentistry treatments, cosmetic dentistry treatments and restorative dentistry treatments are offered at Culver City Dentist and other areas like West Los Angeles and Beverly Hills Dentist.